The Central Bank of the Bahamas published its latest domestic economic assessment, finding that the economy continued to expand at a healthy rate in June, although growth was normalizing toward its medium-term potential. Tourism remained robust as the higher-value stopover segment rebounded and cruise activity continued to grow. Visitor arrivals rose 15.3% year over year to 1.1 million in May, bringing arrivals for the year to date to 6.1 million, up 14.2%. June data also showed increases in international departures, short-term rental room nights, occupancy rates and average daily room rates. The latest available labor data showed that unemployment declined to 8.7% in the fourth quarter of 2025, while average consumer price inflation rose to 2.1% in the 12 months to April 2026. Banking sector liquidity declined negligibly in June, while external reserve growth slowed significantly because of lower net foreign currency inflows through the public sector.
Central Bank of the Bahamas2026-07-30
Central Bank of the Bahamas reports continued healthy economic expansion, with tourism robust and inflation at 2.1%
The Central Bank of the Bahamas reported continued healthy economic expansion in June, supported by robust stopover and cruise tourism. Visitor arrivals rose 15.3% year over year in May, while average inflation reached 2.1% in the 12 months to April. External reserve growth slowed significantly as public sector foreign currency inflows declined.